NJ DHSS email to medical marijuana advocates

The following email was received by CMMNJ Board member Peter Rosenfeld from the New Jersey department of Health and Senior Services:

From: Medical.Marijuana@doh.state.nj.us

At this time, the Department is not reviewing proposals or receiving documents, nor is the Department meeting with potential vendors, advocacy groups, lobbyists or other interested parties to present business plans, strategies or offers of assistance. Given the large numbers and diverse recommendations, we believe this is the best way to assure an objective, science based strategy.

As you are aware, medical marijuana is not available in the state of New Jersey. The Department must first establish a process to register qualified patients, caregivers and alternate treatment centers. This includes the continuation of coordinated implementation strategies amongst all state agencies to ensure all issues are addressed adequately. Full implementation of the New Jersey Compassionate Use of Marijuana Act awaits completion of this mandated process, which will assure the intent of the Act is accessible to those patients with designated medical conditions, while ensuring that it is implemented in a safe and effective manner.

For additional information regarding this topic, please visit our website at www.nj.gov/health for the most current information about the implementation of the New Jersey Compassionate Use Medical Marijuana Act, including frequently asked questions.